Entry Word: explain

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to make plain or understandable <write an essay that explains the meaning of the poem>

Synonyms clarify, clear (up), construe, demonstrate, elucidate, explicate, expound, illuminate, illustrate, interpret, spell out

Related Words decipher, decode; analyze, break down; disentangle, undo, unravel, unscramble, untangle; resolve, solve; define, specify

Phrases get across

Near Antonyms befog, cloud; confound, confuse

Antonyms obscure

2 to give the reason for or cause of <can you explain your very odd behavior at the wedding reception?>

Synonyms account (for), explain away, rationalize

Related Words condone, excuse, forgive, justify; absolve, acquit, exculpate, exonerate, vindicate